Nicknamed “the city that never sleeps,” Tel Aviv was founded in 1909 as a modern extension of the ancient port city of Jaffa. Perched on the Mediterranean coast about 37 miles northwest of Jerusalem, contemporary Tel Aviv radiates a youthful, creative energy. Beyond striking architecture and lively beaches, the city is known for a thriving arts scene, vibrant nightlife, excellent shopping and outstanding food that ranges from traditional to cutting-edge.
For travelers from the United States, the most convenient option is nonstop flights offered by major carriers such as EL AL and Delta from several U.S. gateways. A nonstop flight from New York JFK to Tel Aviv typically takes about 10 hours. Ben Gurion International Airport is the principal entry point and sits roughly 25 minutes from downtown Tel Aviv by taxi, private car or limousine. Public transport is also available, including Egged buses connecting the airport with the city.
Much of Tel Aviv’s energy centers around its coastline. One prominent luxury choice for business and leisure travelers is the InterContinental David Tel Aviv. This five-star hotel features 555 guestrooms and suites, a fully equipped business center with meeting rooms and audiovisual support, and reliable high-speed wireless access. Leisure facilities include an outdoor pool, fitness center and spa, and guests can choose from two restaurants and two bars. The hotel’s proximity to Alma Beach makes it especially attractive for those who want to combine meetings with seaside downtime.
Another beachside option is the Carlton Tel Aviv Hotel, a slightly smaller luxury property with 268 rooms and suites, many offering ocean views. The hotel’s Royal Executive Lounge package includes access to a sizable adjoining conference room with a projector, computers, WiFi and secretarial assistance—useful for corporate groups. Guests also enjoy three dining venues, two bars, a rooftop pool and a spa and health club.
For travelers who prefer boutique properties, The Norman Tel Aviv provides refined, intimate accommodations in two restored 1920s buildings adjacent to Rothschild Boulevard in the White City, an area notable for its collection of Bauhaus-style architecture. The Norman’s 50 rooms combine modern comforts with period details, and two penthouse suites offer private terraces and outdoor hot tubs. Dining options include a Mediterranean restaurant and an Asian-fusion venue, plus a Library Bar. The hotel also features a rooftop infinity pool, a wellness center and a fully equipped boardroom suitable for executive meetings.
Hotel Montefiore is another boutique choice housed in a restored 1920s townhouse. With just 12 rooms, this eclectic hotel emphasizes character and artistic detail rather than extensive business facilities. Each room features unique artwork, floor-to-ceiling windows and a black marble bathroom, and the popular brasserie provides a lively setting for casual business meetings or social gatherings.
Dining in Tel Aviv is taken seriously. In addition to outstanding Israeli cuisine, the city offers restaurants rooted in Russian, Polish, Bulgarian, Iranian, Moroccan, Mediterranean and Asian culinary traditions. Tel Aviv also supports a robust vegetarian and vegan scene, reflecting a health-conscious culture and a focus on fresh local produce. Many establishments observe kosher practices, and upscale restaurants often highlight seasonal ingredients, herbs and spices from the region.
Business breakfasts are typically impressive, particularly at hotels where lavish buffets are common. These spreads often include fresh fruit, yogurts, a wide variety of cheeses, egg preparations, cured and pickled fish, pastries, breads and homemade jams. Many buffets also present salad bars and international options—such as miso soup, tofu and vegetable bowls, noodle dishes and stir-fries—and generous dessert selections featuring cakes, tarts and confections.
Jaffa Court at the InterContinental David Tel Aviv serves a substantial Israeli breakfast on an outdoor terrace, an appealing setting for early meetings. The Carlton’s beachside breakfast lets guests dine alfresco with sea views, while Hotel Montefiore’s restaurant offers a more intimate atmosphere favored by local professionals. For a lively weekend experience, Dr. Shakshuka is known for authentic Israeli breakfasts and its signature dish, shakshuka—eggs simmered in a spiced tomato sauce—served with plenty of bread.
Among Tel Aviv’s esteemed restaurants is Catit, founded by chef Meir Adoni and set in an elegant Ottoman house. The restaurant is celebrated for seasonal tasting menus that blend French, Moroccan and Mediterranean influences. Dallal, located in the historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood, offers refined Israeli cuisine in interconnected 19th-century houses with courtyards and a garden; its name reflects a spirit of pampering and hospitality.
Near the Tel Aviv Port and the farmers’ market, Kitchen Market specializes in Israeli-Italian dishes, from tomato and labneh salads to seabass bouillabaisse and lamb tortellini. For food shopping and casual exploration, Sarona Market is a must-visit: the largest indoor market in Israel with numerous shops, stalls and eateries offering cheeses, breads, local produce, spices, chocolates, teas, coffee and cookware—an ideal spot for gifts and culinary discoveries.
Sarona Market © LEV TSIMBLER | DREAMSTIME.COM
When time allows, explore cultural highlights such as the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, which showcases modern and classic works alongside contemporary Israeli artists. Strolling the historic streets of old Jaffa provides a glimpse into the region’s past and contrasts the modern bustle of Tel Aviv. Whether your trip focuses on business, leisure or culinary adventures, Tel Aviv offers a dynamic mix of experiences that combine Mediterranean charm with cosmopolitan energy.